Labour Day (Germany)

Labour Day in Germany is a public holiday in all states, and it is observed on May 1 each year. The holiday is a holiday to celebrate the achievements of workers. Labour Day has its origins in the eight-hour day movement, which is eight hours for work, eight hours for recreation, and eight hours for rest.

In the 1800s, most workers had to work over 12 hours a day and 7 days a week to maintain a basic living, which led to the appearance of labour unions organizing strikes to improve the poor working conditions.

Many of the strikes turned violent at that time including the Haymarket Affair, which took place on May 4, 1886. The event started with a peaceful labour protest rally in support of the eight-hour workday near Chicago's Haymarket Square, and it turned into a riot when someone threw a bomb at police. At least seven police and four civilians died, and many were wounded. The Haymarket Affair is generally considered as the origin of Labour Day.

In many countries, Labour Day is observed on May 1 each year to collectively demonstrate and recognize the efforts of the past labour movements. Schools, government departments, and many businesses are closed.

The following is the list of Labour Day in Germany from 2022 to 2026.

Please check more public holidays in Germany: